How Can Joseph Parker Stop The Juggernaut Joyce In His Tracks?

Business and drama aside, what an unbelievable clash of styles this fight offers. Even though the odds suggest that Joyce is a slight favourite, this fight might very well be tailor-made for New Zealand’s Joseph Parker.

An honest take: Joe Joyce is one of the best heavyweights in the world, but he’s also one of the slowest, most predictable heavyweights in the world. Moreover, Joe Joyce turns 37 this month. So, in all actuality, how much better can Joyce really get? On the other hand, Parker is officially the youngest heavyweight in the top 10. His performances show it.

I have to be transparent; I thought Derek Chisora clearly beat Parker in their first clash. However, the adjustments in style Parker made with Andy Lee were a sight to behold. And for as much as people don’t like to give Chisora his flowers, I think he beat Usyk two years ago on October 31st. Also, Derek wasn’t credited with a knockdown over Usyk in the fourth, even though Finchley’s legend did drop the Ukrainian. Chisora was even conquering Whyte before the knockout happened. So, in all actuality, Parker was the only man to outfight Chisora since Fury did almost a decade ago.

To a certain extent, Parker’s last fight against Chisora was almost the perfect final step or tune-up before facing the style Joyce possesses. In fact, Derek Chisora has better head movement than Joyce. Moreover, Chisora is much faster and explosive in close spots. It’s the durability that makes Joyce a rigid wall that seems unbreakable. However, at some point, something has to give, and it’s only a matter of time for Joyce’s chin to be compromised with all the heavy flush shots he takes in sparring and on live television from men who weigh over 250 lbs.

Regarding records, I think Parker’s resume shows that he might very well have had the most gruelling schedule in heavyweight boxing. In around five years, he fought Ruiz, Joshua, Whyte, Chisora twice, Hughie Fury, and now Joyce potentially twice. Remarkable. On the other hand, what were Joyce’s best two wins? 21-year-old inexperienced Dubios and Christian Hammer? Well, that’s quite a Vast difference.

Still, despite Joyce’s massive lack of defence and speed, his size, durability, and mental fortitude make this a toss-up matchup.

If Parker wants to win this fight, he must fight the way he did in the Chisora rematch. Boxing from the perfect mid/outside range he creates with his jab and utilizing his footwork. But more often than not, Parker must hold his ground to earn respect. If only Parker believes in his power the way, his team does. Joyce will be there to get hit all night, but he’s also gonna keep hunting all night for the knockout. Again, what a fascinating clash of styles.